When there are no words to say, when in the course of just a few hours you are brought back to those raw painful emotions, when you're taken to your brink; there is a strength and a power that I cannot control when you have truly given your life over to His will and His purpose! I don't know His why's right now and I may never know them, but this I do know I am resting in His will. I have given my life and my will over to Him so that He can complete His work in me.
"In Christ Alone with the Solid Rock"
In Christ alone my hope is found.
He is my light, my strength, my song.
This Cornerstone, this solid ground,
Firm through the fiercest drought and storm.
What heights of love, what depths of peace;
When fears are stilled, when strivings cease;
My Comforter, my All in All,
Here in the love of Christ I stand.
In Christ alone, who took on flesh,
Fullness of God in helpless babe.
This gift of love and righteousness,
Scorned by the ones He came to save.
‘Til on that cross as Jesus died,
The wrath of God was satisfied.
For every sin on Him was laid,
Here in the death of Christ I live.
There in the ground His body lay.
Light of the world by darkness slain.
Then bursting forth in glorious Day,
Up from the grave He rose again.
And as He stands in victory,
Sin’s curse has lost its grip on me.
For I am His and He is mine
Bought with the precious blood of Christ.
On Christ the solid Rock I stand.
All other ground is sinking sand.
All other ground is sinking sand.
On Christ the solid Rock I stand.
All other ground is sinking sand.
All other ground is sinking sand.
No guilt in life, no fear in death,
This is the power of Christ in me.
From life’s first cry to final breath,
Jesus commands my destiny.
No power of hell, no scheme of man,
Can ever pluck me from His hand.
‘Til He returns or calls me home,
Here in the power of Christ I’ll stand.
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
Thanksgiving
What am I thankful for?
-God-
I cannot even begin to express my thankfulness to God for loving me beyond my faults (which are MANY). For providing me with a way to come into His kingdom though that precious gift of Jesus' sacrifice, and the only thing I have to do is accept Him as my Lord and Savior and ask for forgiveness. I am so thankful that though all of this He is more than sufficient for me, He had met all of my needs spiritually and physically and I know that He will continue to do so. I am thankful that He choose me to walk this path with Him; I would have never chosen to do it, but he choose me!
-Mom & Dad-
I am so thankful that God saw fit to provide me with such wonderful parents who love me with an unconditional love. I am thankful that God has allowed me to develop a wonderful friendship with both of my parents. I am thankful for the Godly examples they have set for me and my sisters. I am thankful for their love.
-Sisters-
I am thankful that God has blessed me with three beautiful sisters, all of whom I have wonderfully different relationships with.
-My Babies-
I am so thankful that God saw fit to allow me to have such a close relationship with each of my four nieces and nephews. I only hope that through our relationships I can be a Godly example for them. I love those four babies more than anything.
-My Students-
I am thankful for the fact that I got to teach some awesome students who I loved and still love dearly! I pray that when they look back on our time together they will see how much they were loved!
-Peace & Understanding-
I am abundantly thankful for the peace that passes all understanding that God has blessed me with. I am thankful that God has provided me with the understanding I need to get through this situation.
-Friends-
I am thankful for the people that God has allowed to come into my life.
-Hope-
I am thankful for the hope that God has given me in times of uncertainty.
"Give Thanks"
GIVE THANKS
WITH A GRATEFUL HEART
GIVE THANKS
TO THE HOLY ONE
GIVE THANKS
FOR HE'S GIVEN
JESUS CHRIST, HIS SON
(X2)
AND NOW LET THE WEAK SAY
I AM STRONG
LET THE POOR SAY
I AM RICH
BECAUSE OF WHAT
THE LORD HAS DONE
FOR US
(X2)
GIVE THANKS...
"Wherever He Leads"
Take up my cross and follow Me. I heard my Master say.
I gave My life to ransom thee-surrender your all today.
*Chorus*
Wherever He leads I'll go, Wherever He leads I'll go:
I'll follow my Christ who loves me so-Wherever He leads....
I'll go
He drew me closer to His side, I sought His will to know.
And in that will I now abide-Wherever He leads I'll go.
*Chorus*
It may be thru the shadows dim, Or o'er the stormy sea:
I take my cross and follow Him-Wherever He leadeth me.
*Chorus*
My heart, my life, my all I bring to Christ who loves me so:
He is my Master, Lord and King-Wherever He leads I'll go.
-God-
I cannot even begin to express my thankfulness to God for loving me beyond my faults (which are MANY). For providing me with a way to come into His kingdom though that precious gift of Jesus' sacrifice, and the only thing I have to do is accept Him as my Lord and Savior and ask for forgiveness. I am so thankful that though all of this He is more than sufficient for me, He had met all of my needs spiritually and physically and I know that He will continue to do so. I am thankful that He choose me to walk this path with Him; I would have never chosen to do it, but he choose me!
-Mom & Dad-
I am so thankful that God saw fit to provide me with such wonderful parents who love me with an unconditional love. I am thankful that God has allowed me to develop a wonderful friendship with both of my parents. I am thankful for the Godly examples they have set for me and my sisters. I am thankful for their love.
-Sisters-
I am thankful that God has blessed me with three beautiful sisters, all of whom I have wonderfully different relationships with.
-My Babies-
I am so thankful that God saw fit to allow me to have such a close relationship with each of my four nieces and nephews. I only hope that through our relationships I can be a Godly example for them. I love those four babies more than anything.
-My Students-
I am thankful for the fact that I got to teach some awesome students who I loved and still love dearly! I pray that when they look back on our time together they will see how much they were loved!
-Peace & Understanding-
I am abundantly thankful for the peace that passes all understanding that God has blessed me with. I am thankful that God has provided me with the understanding I need to get through this situation.
-Friends-
I am thankful for the people that God has allowed to come into my life.
-Hope-
I am thankful for the hope that God has given me in times of uncertainty.
"Give Thanks"
GIVE THANKS
WITH A GRATEFUL HEART
GIVE THANKS
TO THE HOLY ONE
GIVE THANKS
FOR HE'S GIVEN
JESUS CHRIST, HIS SON
(X2)
AND NOW LET THE WEAK SAY
I AM STRONG
LET THE POOR SAY
I AM RICH
BECAUSE OF WHAT
THE LORD HAS DONE
FOR US
(X2)
GIVE THANKS...
"Wherever He Leads"
Take up my cross and follow Me. I heard my Master say.
I gave My life to ransom thee-surrender your all today.
*Chorus*
Wherever He leads I'll go, Wherever He leads I'll go:
I'll follow my Christ who loves me so-Wherever He leads....
I'll go
He drew me closer to His side, I sought His will to know.
And in that will I now abide-Wherever He leads I'll go.
*Chorus*
It may be thru the shadows dim, Or o'er the stormy sea:
I take my cross and follow Him-Wherever He leadeth me.
*Chorus*
My heart, my life, my all I bring to Christ who loves me so:
He is my Master, Lord and King-Wherever He leads I'll go.
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
I wanna be like Noah!
I started a Bible study recently that focuses on faith and how to build it, great topic isn't it? Today's study was entitled "When Faith Makes You Look Like a Fool," or something very similar; it focused on Noah and his faith and trust in God. Throughout this entire walk I had never thought about Noah and his faith in God, something that I should have done along time ago. However, God is so awesome to give me what I needed to hear exactly when I needed to hear it.
Just think, Noah was told by God to build an arc for a great flood, but they had never seen such a think before. I'm sure and the Bible gives reference to it, people thought the was crazy crazy (that's a family expression to refer to someone who's gone off the deep end), from the outside looking in Noah's faith had made him look like a fool. Now in the end his faith and his family's faith was rewarded, they survived the flood. But that faith wasn't rewarded until after a time of trusting in God without any sign of a flood. So how does this apply to me and my situation? I followed God's will and directions and I just knew that as soon as the school year was over I would be offered a terrific job, the school year has ended and so such offer as of yet. I have posted my resume on job sites and sent it out to numerous companies for different positions, and still nothing. Last night I was starting to get defeated and I felt that still small voice saying "what you are doing is not in vain, you are planting the seeds, and trusting in Me to do the rest." When I read this study today I knew that God was showing me that I need to keep following His directions and leading and in His time I will have the job that He wants me to have. So no more defeat, no more feeling like a fool, in God's time I will have what He wants for me!
"Praise You In This Storm"
I was sure by now
God You would have reached down
And wiped our tears away
Stepped in and saved the day
But once again, I say "Amen", and it's still raining
As the thunder rolls
I barely hear Your whisper through the rain
"I'm with you"
And as Your mercy falls
I raise my hands and praise the God who gives
And takes away
[Chorus:]
And I'll praise You in this storm
And I will lift my hands
For You are who You are
No matter where I am
And every tear I've cried
You hold in Your hand
You never left my side
And though my heart is torn
I will praise You in this storm
I remember when
I stumbled in the wind
You heard my cry to you
And you raised me up again
My strength is almost gone
How can I carry on
If I can't find You
But as the thunder rolls
I barely hear You whisper through the rain
"I'm with you"
And as Your mercy falls
I raise my hands and praise the God who gives
And takes away
[Chorus]
I lift my eyes unto the hills
Where does my help come from?
My help comes from the Lord
The Maker of Heaven and Earth
[Chorus x2]
Just think, Noah was told by God to build an arc for a great flood, but they had never seen such a think before. I'm sure and the Bible gives reference to it, people thought the was crazy crazy (that's a family expression to refer to someone who's gone off the deep end), from the outside looking in Noah's faith had made him look like a fool. Now in the end his faith and his family's faith was rewarded, they survived the flood. But that faith wasn't rewarded until after a time of trusting in God without any sign of a flood. So how does this apply to me and my situation? I followed God's will and directions and I just knew that as soon as the school year was over I would be offered a terrific job, the school year has ended and so such offer as of yet. I have posted my resume on job sites and sent it out to numerous companies for different positions, and still nothing. Last night I was starting to get defeated and I felt that still small voice saying "what you are doing is not in vain, you are planting the seeds, and trusting in Me to do the rest." When I read this study today I knew that God was showing me that I need to keep following His directions and leading and in His time I will have the job that He wants me to have. So no more defeat, no more feeling like a fool, in God's time I will have what He wants for me!
"Praise You In This Storm"
I was sure by now
God You would have reached down
And wiped our tears away
Stepped in and saved the day
But once again, I say "Amen", and it's still raining
As the thunder rolls
I barely hear Your whisper through the rain
"I'm with you"
And as Your mercy falls
I raise my hands and praise the God who gives
And takes away
[Chorus:]
And I'll praise You in this storm
And I will lift my hands
For You are who You are
No matter where I am
And every tear I've cried
You hold in Your hand
You never left my side
And though my heart is torn
I will praise You in this storm
I remember when
I stumbled in the wind
You heard my cry to you
And you raised me up again
My strength is almost gone
How can I carry on
If I can't find You
But as the thunder rolls
I barely hear You whisper through the rain
"I'm with you"
And as Your mercy falls
I raise my hands and praise the God who gives
And takes away
[Chorus]
I lift my eyes unto the hills
Where does my help come from?
My help comes from the Lord
The Maker of Heaven and Earth
[Chorus x2]
Sunday, June 20, 2010
His Strength is Perfect
It's done, it's over, there's nothing else to do but wait and pray! Lastly I have been reading Beth Moore's "So Long, Insecurity," and even through that God has spoken to me and brought His sweet peace down like a flood.
Here are some of the verses that were/are such a comfort to me: "The Lord gives His people stength; the Lord grants His people security." Psalms 29:11, NET; "...if God is for us, who can be against us?" Romans 8:31; "Do not throw away your confidence; it will be richly rewarded. You need to perservere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what He has promised." Hebrews 10:35-26, and; "...(You may be) struck down, but (you are) not destroyed" 2 Cor. 4:9.
There's such a sweet reasuring beauty to all of these verses! None of these verses mean that if I follow God's will for my life that I will have everything I want; they mean that He will lead me through this and my reward is something far greater that my earthly wants, it means the gift of eternal life with Him!
Thank you Lord for being me strength, my security, my cheerleader, my provider, my comforter, my all in all! Thank you for this trail you have brought my way! Or is it really a trail Lord? Let me rephrase that, thank you for Your direct to Your perfect will! Lord, through this I have come to rely on You as my sourse of everything, thank you! Lord, You are all that I need and I praise You in the mist of it all! Father, I pray that my mind, ears, spirit will be open to Your will and Your will alone; lead me where you want me to go! In Your Name, Amen!
His Strength is Perfect
I can do all things
Through Christ who gives me strength,
But sometimes I wonder what He can do through me;
No great success to show, No glory on my own,
Yet in my weakness He is there to let me know . . .
CHORUS
His strength is perfect when our strength is gone;
He’ll carry us when we can’t carry on.
Raised in His power, the weak become strong;
His strength is perfect, His strength is perfect.
We can only know
The power that He holds
When we truly see how deep our weakness goes;
His strength in us begins
Where ours comes to an end.
He hears our humble cry and proves again . . .
(chorus)
Here are some of the verses that were/are such a comfort to me: "The Lord gives His people stength; the Lord grants His people security." Psalms 29:11, NET; "...if God is for us, who can be against us?" Romans 8:31; "Do not throw away your confidence; it will be richly rewarded. You need to perservere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what He has promised." Hebrews 10:35-26, and; "...(You may be) struck down, but (you are) not destroyed" 2 Cor. 4:9.
There's such a sweet reasuring beauty to all of these verses! None of these verses mean that if I follow God's will for my life that I will have everything I want; they mean that He will lead me through this and my reward is something far greater that my earthly wants, it means the gift of eternal life with Him!
Thank you Lord for being me strength, my security, my cheerleader, my provider, my comforter, my all in all! Thank you for this trail you have brought my way! Or is it really a trail Lord? Let me rephrase that, thank you for Your direct to Your perfect will! Lord, through this I have come to rely on You as my sourse of everything, thank you! Lord, You are all that I need and I praise You in the mist of it all! Father, I pray that my mind, ears, spirit will be open to Your will and Your will alone; lead me where you want me to go! In Your Name, Amen!
His Strength is Perfect
I can do all things
Through Christ who gives me strength,
But sometimes I wonder what He can do through me;
No great success to show, No glory on my own,
Yet in my weakness He is there to let me know . . .
CHORUS
His strength is perfect when our strength is gone;
He’ll carry us when we can’t carry on.
Raised in His power, the weak become strong;
His strength is perfect, His strength is perfect.
We can only know
The power that He holds
When we truly see how deep our weakness goes;
His strength in us begins
Where ours comes to an end.
He hears our humble cry and proves again . . .
(chorus)
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
He's All I Need!!
Today was the last post planning day, the last day that I was at the school I love, the last day that I had a job. With all of those last stared the first of many other thing, the first day that I have no other alternative other than complete faith in God's will and plan for my life, the first day to step out in faith and say okay God I believe You are leading me I will follow your will (The first day in 9 months I have had to use a PC, I have become a die hard Mac girl!)
He's All I Need!
He's all I need
He's all I need
Jesus is all I need
He satisfies
My needs supply
Jesus is all I need
Jesus is everything I need
Jesus, Jesus
Jesus is life and breath to me
Jesus my Lord
His name is Jesus my Lord
He's all I need
He's all I need
Lord, thank you for the peace that You flooded me with today, thank you for allowing me the opportunity to share Your peace with others! Thank you for supplying me with understanding just when I need it! Thank you for loving me enough to lead me through this trial! Lord, You are everything I need, You are more than enough for me! Thank you for this blessing and I pray that I will be a good steward of Your will! I love you, In Jesus name AMEN!
He's All I Need!
He's all I need
He's all I need
Jesus is all I need
He satisfies
My needs supply
Jesus is all I need
Jesus is everything I need
Jesus, Jesus
Jesus is life and breath to me
Jesus my Lord
His name is Jesus my Lord
He's all I need
He's all I need
Lord, thank you for the peace that You flooded me with today, thank you for allowing me the opportunity to share Your peace with others! Thank you for supplying me with understanding just when I need it! Thank you for loving me enough to lead me through this trial! Lord, You are everything I need, You are more than enough for me! Thank you for this blessing and I pray that I will be a good steward of Your will! I love you, In Jesus name AMEN!
Friday, June 11, 2010
Today's Heart Cry!
Today I have no words, but just a heart cry.
A Miracle Today
Lord, you see the puzzle not the piece
You see the forest not the trees
You know what's best for me
Lord, you have bottled my tears
You see my questions & my fears
And the way it has to be.
I know that there are others more deserving than I.
I know that I'm not worthy but You listen when I cry.
So if this cross is mine to bear, I'll praise You anyway.
Lord, I could sure use a miracle today.
You are faithful more than words
You feed the lilies & the birds
You catch the sparrow when it falls.
You know exactly where I am
So I'm not questioning Your plan
There's a reason for it all.
After the Rain
Lord, I need a miracle today.
Please just let one pass my way, I believe in You.
Help me overcome this fear inside, this pains to much for me to hide.
Lord see me through, I need a miracle from you.
A Miracle Today
Lord, you see the puzzle not the piece
You see the forest not the trees
You know what's best for me
Lord, you have bottled my tears
You see my questions & my fears
And the way it has to be.
I know that there are others more deserving than I.
I know that I'm not worthy but You listen when I cry.
So if this cross is mine to bear, I'll praise You anyway.
Lord, I could sure use a miracle today.
You are faithful more than words
You feed the lilies & the birds
You catch the sparrow when it falls.
You know exactly where I am
So I'm not questioning Your plan
There's a reason for it all.
After the Rain
Lord, I need a miracle today.
Please just let one pass my way, I believe in You.
Help me overcome this fear inside, this pains to much for me to hide.
Lord see me through, I need a miracle from you.
Thursday, June 10, 2010
God is Enough
"God is enough,
God i enough, He is good,
He will take care of us,
He will satisfy us,
He will get us through this,
He is our treasure, "Whom have I in Heaven but YOU? And on Earth there is nothing that I desire besides You!"
My flesh, heart, and my strength my fail
But You are the strength of my heart and my portion forever!"
~John Piper
"God is most glorifies in you,
when you are most satisfied in Him,
in the midst of loss not prosperity."
~John Piper
God i enough, He is good,
He will take care of us,
He will satisfy us,
He will get us through this,
He is our treasure, "Whom have I in Heaven but YOU? And on Earth there is nothing that I desire besides You!"
My flesh, heart, and my strength my fail
But You are the strength of my heart and my portion forever!"
~John Piper
"God is most glorifies in you,
when you are most satisfied in Him,
in the midst of loss not prosperity."
~John Piper
Monday, June 7, 2010
If You Want Me To
In March I started to blog as a way to express my feelings about this path that God has taken me on and through it all I have been at complete peace, because I knew I was/am walking center in His will. That doesn't mean that I don't have times to utter sadness about leaving and I don't question why this has to be, but like the song says, "I'm gonna walk through the valley, if You want me to." In just a few days my time as a teacher will be up, I don't know if this is a permanent closure or if its just for a season. I don't know what my next job will be or were it will be. I don't know about finances. Wouldn't it be easy if God had road signs saying, "Trisha your next turn will be here and you destination will be this?" With all of the things that I don't know this is one thing that I do know, I am making the choice to believe that God will lead me to His perfect will, God has/is/will ALWAYS be in control of my life and nothing that is happening is apart from His will.
"If You Want Me To"
The pathway is broken
And the signs are unclear
And I don't know the reason why You brought me here
But just because You love me the way that You do
I'm gonna walk through the valley
If You want me to
Cause I'm not who I was
When I took my first step
And I'm clinging to the promise You're not through with me yet
So if all of these trials bring me closer to You
Then I will go through the fire
If You want me to
It may not be the way I would have chosen
When You lead me through a world that's not my home
But You never said it would be easy
You only said I'll never go alone (yeah oh oh)
So when the whole world turns against me
And I'm all by myself
And I can't hear You answer my cries for help
I'll remember the sufferin' Your love put You through
And I will go through the valley
If You want me to
When I cross over Jordan, I'm gonna sing, gonna shout
Gonna look into your eyes and see you never let me down
So take me on the pathway that leads me home to you
And I will walk through the valley if you want me to
Yes, I will walk through the valley if you want me to
"If You Want Me To"
The pathway is broken
And the signs are unclear
And I don't know the reason why You brought me here
But just because You love me the way that You do
I'm gonna walk through the valley
If You want me to
Cause I'm not who I was
When I took my first step
And I'm clinging to the promise You're not through with me yet
So if all of these trials bring me closer to You
Then I will go through the fire
If You want me to
It may not be the way I would have chosen
When You lead me through a world that's not my home
But You never said it would be easy
You only said I'll never go alone (yeah oh oh)
So when the whole world turns against me
And I'm all by myself
And I can't hear You answer my cries for help
I'll remember the sufferin' Your love put You through
And I will go through the valley
If You want me to
When I cross over Jordan, I'm gonna sing, gonna shout
Gonna look into your eyes and see you never let me down
So take me on the pathway that leads me home to you
And I will walk through the valley if you want me to
Yes, I will walk through the valley if you want me to
Thursday, June 3, 2010
My Prayer
Sometimes there are no words to say to express my heart, but my prayer is that through all of this I will serve my Lord and let His perfect will be done in my life!
With Al My Heart
In this quiet place with You
I bow before Your throne
I bare the deepest part of me
To You and You alone
I keep no secrets for there is
No thought You have not known
I bring my best and all the rest
To You and lay them down
Chorus:
With all my heart
I want to love You Lord
And live my life
Each day to know You more
All that is in me
Is Your completely
I'll serve You only
With all my heart
Verse 2:
You faithfully supply all my needs
According to Your plan
So help me, Lord to seek Your face
Before I seek Your hand
And trust You know what's best for me
When I don't understand
Then follow in obedience In every circumstance
Chorus till fade:
With all my heart
I want to love You Lord
And live my life
Each day to know You more
All that is in me
Is Your completely
I'll serve You only
With all my heart
With Al My Heart
In this quiet place with You
I bow before Your throne
I bare the deepest part of me
To You and You alone
I keep no secrets for there is
No thought You have not known
I bring my best and all the rest
To You and lay them down
Chorus:
With all my heart
I want to love You Lord
And live my life
Each day to know You more
All that is in me
Is Your completely
I'll serve You only
With all my heart
Verse 2:
You faithfully supply all my needs
According to Your plan
So help me, Lord to seek Your face
Before I seek Your hand
And trust You know what's best for me
When I don't understand
Then follow in obedience In every circumstance
Chorus till fade:
With all my heart
I want to love You Lord
And live my life
Each day to know You more
All that is in me
Is Your completely
I'll serve You only
With all my heart
Sunday, May 30, 2010
Principles of Life
I was listening to to old FBC Jax songs on YouTube, which also included listening to FBC Atlanta, same director different location, when I stumbled on "Principles of Life" written by Phil Cross for Charles Stanley's 40th anniversary. In the mist of it Dr. Vines, my old pastor at FBC Jax, had a video montage of some of his (Charles Stanley's) 30 life principles. I became so intrigued as to the what the rest of them were I looked them up, just call me Nancy Drew jacked up on Mountain Dew and migraine medicine.
Where have I been these are so awesome! Well, I know where I have been; I have been trying to control my own life and experiences, I have been learning that I am not in control of anything and that He is and will alway have His will in my life whether it's perfect or permissive, I have been learning either I choose to go willingly or not if it's His will I will go, I have been coming back to the place of perfect peace, rest, trust, happiness, abundance, fullness, satisfaction, understanding, compassion, I can go on even more but as a teacher the excessive use of commas are bothering me.
Yes, I've heard all these time and time again, being that I've been in church sine 9 months before I was born, but never in a complete and concise list. This list will be printed and put into everything that I own for those times that I need a quick reference.
The 30 Life Principles
by Charles Stanley
1. Our intimacy with God – His highest priority for our lives – determines the impact of our lives.
2. Obey God and leave all the consequences to Him.
3. God’s Word is an immovable anchor in times of storm.
4. The awareness of God’s presence energizes us for our work.
5. God does not require us to understand His will, just obey it, even if it seems unreasonable.
6. You reap what you sow, more than you sow, and later than you sow.
7. The dark moments of our life will last only so long as is necessary for God to accomplish His purpose in us.
8. Fight all your battles on your knees and you win every time.
9. Trusting God means looking beyond what we can see to what God sees.
10. If necessary, God will move heaven and earth to show us His will.
11. God assumes full responsibility for our needs when we obey Him.
12. Peace with God is the fruit of oneness with God.
13. Listening to God is essential to walking with God.
14. God acts on behalf of those who wait for Him.
15. Brokenness is God’s requirement for maximum usefulness.
16. Whatever you acquire outside of God’s will eventually turns to ashes.
17. We stand tallest and strongest on our knees.
18. As children of a sovereign God, we are never victims of our circumstances.
19. Anything you hold too tightly, you will lose.
20. Disappointments are inevitable, discouragement is a choice.
21. Obedience always brings blessing.
22. To walk in the Spirit is to obey the initial promptings of the Spirit.
23. You can never out give God.
24. To live the Christian life is to allow Jesus to live His life in and through us.
25. God blesses us so that we might bless others.
26. Adversity is a bridge to a deeper relationship with God.
27. Prayer is life’s greatest time saver.
28. No Christian has ever been called to “go it alone” in his or her walk of faith.
29. We learn more in our valley experiences than on our mountaintops.
30. An eager anticipation of the Lord’s return keeps us living productively.
Where have I been these are so awesome! Well, I know where I have been; I have been trying to control my own life and experiences, I have been learning that I am not in control of anything and that He is and will alway have His will in my life whether it's perfect or permissive, I have been learning either I choose to go willingly or not if it's His will I will go, I have been coming back to the place of perfect peace, rest, trust, happiness, abundance, fullness, satisfaction, understanding, compassion, I can go on even more but as a teacher the excessive use of commas are bothering me.
Yes, I've heard all these time and time again, being that I've been in church sine 9 months before I was born, but never in a complete and concise list. This list will be printed and put into everything that I own for those times that I need a quick reference.
The 30 Life Principles
by Charles Stanley
1. Our intimacy with God – His highest priority for our lives – determines the impact of our lives.
2. Obey God and leave all the consequences to Him.
3. God’s Word is an immovable anchor in times of storm.
4. The awareness of God’s presence energizes us for our work.
5. God does not require us to understand His will, just obey it, even if it seems unreasonable.
6. You reap what you sow, more than you sow, and later than you sow.
7. The dark moments of our life will last only so long as is necessary for God to accomplish His purpose in us.
8. Fight all your battles on your knees and you win every time.
9. Trusting God means looking beyond what we can see to what God sees.
10. If necessary, God will move heaven and earth to show us His will.
11. God assumes full responsibility for our needs when we obey Him.
12. Peace with God is the fruit of oneness with God.
13. Listening to God is essential to walking with God.
14. God acts on behalf of those who wait for Him.
15. Brokenness is God’s requirement for maximum usefulness.
16. Whatever you acquire outside of God’s will eventually turns to ashes.
17. We stand tallest and strongest on our knees.
18. As children of a sovereign God, we are never victims of our circumstances.
19. Anything you hold too tightly, you will lose.
20. Disappointments are inevitable, discouragement is a choice.
21. Obedience always brings blessing.
22. To walk in the Spirit is to obey the initial promptings of the Spirit.
23. You can never out give God.
24. To live the Christian life is to allow Jesus to live His life in and through us.
25. God blesses us so that we might bless others.
26. Adversity is a bridge to a deeper relationship with God.
27. Prayer is life’s greatest time saver.
28. No Christian has ever been called to “go it alone” in his or her walk of faith.
29. We learn more in our valley experiences than on our mountaintops.
30. An eager anticipation of the Lord’s return keeps us living productively.
Faith
For awhile the thought of "faith as small as a mustard seed" has floated in and out of my head. To be quite honest it happens the most right after lunch when my "chickadees" are slightly losing it and I start to become slightly overwhelmed by thoughts of what is going to happen, where am I going to go, I love this why is God guiding me somewhere else. In those moments just a simple thought pops into my head,"if you just have the faith of a tiny mustard seed," and in that moment I make the choice to believe that I am in His hands! With that small amount of faith God begins to ease all of those other thoughts and the peace that God has granted me from day one of this begins to flood in and take control. Isn't it simply amazing how God can take something so small, just a simple thought, to usher in a wealth of peace? However, it's my choice to have even that small amount of faith, but when I make that choice that small amount grows beyond measure!
The Unseen Hand
There is an unseen hand to me that leads through ways I can not see
While going through this world of woe
This hand still leadds me as I go
Chorus:
I'm trusting to the Unseen Hand
That guides me through this weary land
And some sweet day
I'll reach that strand
Still guided by the Unseen
I long to see my Savior's face
And sing a song about his Saving Grace
And there upon this golden strand
And praise him for his guiding hand
Chorus:
The Unseen Hand
There is an unseen hand to me that leads through ways I can not see
While going through this world of woe
This hand still leadds me as I go
Chorus:
I'm trusting to the Unseen Hand
That guides me through this weary land
And some sweet day
I'll reach that strand
Still guided by the Unseen
I long to see my Savior's face
And sing a song about his Saving Grace
And there upon this golden strand
And praise him for his guiding hand
Chorus:
Thursday, May 27, 2010
I Need You Now!
Daystar
Lily of the Valley, let your sweet aroma fill my life
Rose of Sharon show me how to grow in beauty in God's sight
Fairest of ten thousand make me a reflection of your light
Daystar shine down on me let your love shine through me in the night
Lead me Lord, I'll follow. Anywhere you open up the door
Let your word speak to me, show me what I've never seen before
Lord I want to be your witness, you can take what's wrong and make it right
Daystar shine down on me, let your love shine through me in the night
Lord I've seen a world that's dying
Wounded by the master of deceit
Groping in the darkness, haunted by the years of past defeat
But when I see you standing near me, Lord
Shining with compassion in your eyes
I pray Jesus shine down on me let your love shine through me in the night
Lead me Lord, I'll follow anywhere you open up the door
Let your word speak to me, show me what I've never seen before
Lord I want to be your witness, you can take what's wrong and make it right
Daystar shine down on me, let your love shine through me in the night
Lily of the Valley, let your sweet aroma fill my life
Rose of Sharon show me how to grow in beauty in God's sight
Fairest of ten thousand make me a reflection of your light
Daystar shine down on me let your love shine through me in the night
Lead me Lord, I'll follow. Anywhere you open up the door
Let your word speak to me, show me what I've never seen before
Lord I want to be your witness, you can take what's wrong and make it right
Daystar shine down on me, let your love shine through me in the night
Lord I've seen a world that's dying
Wounded by the master of deceit
Groping in the darkness, haunted by the years of past defeat
But when I see you standing near me, Lord
Shining with compassion in your eyes
I pray Jesus shine down on me let your love shine through me in the night
Lead me Lord, I'll follow anywhere you open up the door
Let your word speak to me, show me what I've never seen before
Lord I want to be your witness, you can take what's wrong and make it right
Daystar shine down on me, let your love shine through me in the night
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
Why Choose Faith?
It feels like for the past few days I and the ones I love the most are under great attack; I turn from one struggle to the next, from one valley of desperation to the next. The "self" side of me wants to say "but I am trusting in God, why is this happening?" Why does it seem the closer we get to the Lords will the harder things will seem? It seems as though God is not there. But I KNOW THE TRUTH, God is right their with me, with my family in the middle of the fire waiting for us to call out for help! He allows trials to come to purify our faith and to draw us closer to Him, He never allows anything to happen to us that He Himself has not preordained from the beginning of the world.
So why do I choose faith? Simply I choose faith because the thought of God not controlling my life is utterly terrifying, the thought that there is no one to call out to for help is beyond isolating. That's not to say that I understand these trails that we are going through, but I stand here today to say that I know that God is sitting on His throne and our lives are in His hands! God is in control and my faith I believe that HE will provide!!!
So why do I choose faith? Simply I choose faith because the thought of God not controlling my life is utterly terrifying, the thought that there is no one to call out to for help is beyond isolating. That's not to say that I understand these trails that we are going through, but I stand here today to say that I know that God is sitting on His throne and our lives are in His hands! God is in control and my faith I believe that HE will provide!!!
Sunday, May 23, 2010
Thou, Oh Lord
hou, Oh Lord
Many are they increased that troubled me
Many are they that rise up against me
Many there be which say of my soul
There is no helpe for him in God
Father, once again I turn it all over to You! Use me Lord for Your will and Your glory! Please give me the peace that passes all understanding!
Thou, Oh Lord!
But thou, oh Lord are a shield for me
My glory and the lifter of my head
Thou, oh Lord are shield for me
My glory and the lifter of my head
Repeat
I cried unto the Lord with my voice
And he heard me out of His holy hill
I laid me down and slept and awaked
For the Lord sustained, for he sustained me
Thou, oh Lord are a shield for me
My glory and the lifter of my head
Thou, oh Lord are shield for me
My glory and the lifter of my head
Repeat Twice
Many are they increased that troubled me
Many are they that rise up against me
Many there be which say of my soul
There is no helpe for him in God
Father, once again I turn it all over to You! Use me Lord for Your will and Your glory! Please give me the peace that passes all understanding!
Thou, Oh Lord!
But thou, oh Lord are a shield for me
My glory and the lifter of my head
Thou, oh Lord are shield for me
My glory and the lifter of my head
Repeat
I cried unto the Lord with my voice
And he heard me out of His holy hill
I laid me down and slept and awaked
For the Lord sustained, for he sustained me
Thou, oh Lord are a shield for me
My glory and the lifter of my head
Thou, oh Lord are shield for me
My glory and the lifter of my head
Repeat Twice
Monday, May 10, 2010
Unredeemed
Exodus 15:13 "In Your unfailing love, You will lead the people You have redeemed."
Lord, please bring me Your sweet peace! Lord, I lay my life at Your feet, please take those pieces and make something out of it that brings honor and glory to You and You alone!
Unredeemed
The cruelest world
The coldest heart
The deepest wound
The endless dark
The lonely ache
The burning tears
The bitter nights
The wasted years
Life breaks and falls apart
But we know these are
Places where grace is soon to be so amazing
It may be unfulfilled
It may be unrestored
But when anything that's shattered is laid before the lord
Just watch and see
It will not be unredeemed
For every choice that led to shame
And all the love that never came
For every vow that someone broke
And every lie that gave up hope
We live in the shadow of the fall
But the cross says these are all
Places where grace is soon to be so amazing
It may be unfulfilled
It may be unrestored
But when anything that's shattered is laid before the lord
Just watch and see
It will not be unredeemed
Places where grace is soon to be so amazing
It may be unfulfilled
It may be unrestored
But you never know the miracle the father has in store
Just watch and see
It will not be
Just watch and see
It will not be unredeemed
The cruelest world
The coldest heart
The deepest wound
The endless dark
The lonely ache
The burning tears
The bitter nights
The wasted years
Life breaks and falls apart
But we know these are
Places where grace is soon to be so amazing
It may be unfulfilled
It may be unrestored
But when anything that's shattered is laid before the lord
Just watch and see
It will not be unredeemed
For every choice that led to shame
And all the love that never came
For every vow that someone broke
And every lie that gave up hope
We live in the shadow of the fall
But the cross says these are all
Places where grace is soon to be so amazing
It may be unfulfilled
It may be unrestored
But when anything that's shattered is laid before the lord
Just watch and see
It will not be unredeemed
Places where grace is soon to be so amazing
It may be unfulfilled
It may be unrestored
But you never know the miracle the father has in store
Just watch and see
It will not be
Just watch and see
It will not be unredeemed
Lord, please bring me Your sweet peace! Lord, I lay my life at Your feet, please take those pieces and make something out of it that brings honor and glory to You and You alone!
Unredeemed
The cruelest world
The coldest heart
The deepest wound
The endless dark
The lonely ache
The burning tears
The bitter nights
The wasted years
Life breaks and falls apart
But we know these are
Places where grace is soon to be so amazing
It may be unfulfilled
It may be unrestored
But when anything that's shattered is laid before the lord
Just watch and see
It will not be unredeemed
For every choice that led to shame
And all the love that never came
For every vow that someone broke
And every lie that gave up hope
We live in the shadow of the fall
But the cross says these are all
Places where grace is soon to be so amazing
It may be unfulfilled
It may be unrestored
But when anything that's shattered is laid before the lord
Just watch and see
It will not be unredeemed
Places where grace is soon to be so amazing
It may be unfulfilled
It may be unrestored
But you never know the miracle the father has in store
Just watch and see
It will not be
Just watch and see
It will not be unredeemed
The cruelest world
The coldest heart
The deepest wound
The endless dark
The lonely ache
The burning tears
The bitter nights
The wasted years
Life breaks and falls apart
But we know these are
Places where grace is soon to be so amazing
It may be unfulfilled
It may be unrestored
But when anything that's shattered is laid before the lord
Just watch and see
It will not be unredeemed
For every choice that led to shame
And all the love that never came
For every vow that someone broke
And every lie that gave up hope
We live in the shadow of the fall
But the cross says these are all
Places where grace is soon to be so amazing
It may be unfulfilled
It may be unrestored
But when anything that's shattered is laid before the lord
Just watch and see
It will not be unredeemed
Places where grace is soon to be so amazing
It may be unfulfilled
It may be unrestored
But you never know the miracle the father has in store
Just watch and see
It will not be
Just watch and see
It will not be unredeemed
Sunday, May 9, 2010
If I Never Teach Again, Will I Still Praise HIM?
That's a good question isn't it? I love teaching, I love my students, I love the challenge, I love it; but I love my Lord and Saviour even more! I struggled for 5 years to get my degree and thought that I would teach until I was married and had children. To answer my question though, YES I will now, still, and forever more praise HIM! If his perfect will is for me to be a sub or check out girl I can only imagine how much more I will love it! I don't know what God is refining me for (see previous post) but I praise Him for what He has, is, and will do! I praise Him for the peace that God and God alone has brought! Even in my moments of weakness and fear, which are many; He speaks to me, to calm me, bring peace and understanding that HE is in control and when I am ready HE will provide me a job! I praise Him for giving me the opportunity and strength to share my faith with others and pray that He will provide me with even more opportunities to do that!
It Is Well With My Soul
When peace, like a river, attendeth my way,
When sorrows like sea billows roll;
Whatever my lot, Thou has taught me to say,
It is well, it is well, with my soul.
Refrain:
It is well, with my soul,
It is well, it is well, with my soul.
My sin, oh, the bliss of this glorious thought!
My sin, not in part but the whole,
Is nailed to the cross, and I bear it no more,
Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, O my soul!
For me, be it Christ, be it Christ hence to live:
And Lord, haste the day when my faith shall be sight,
The clouds be rolled back as a scroll;
The trump shall resound, and the Lord shall descend,
Even so, it is well with my soul.
It Is Well With My Soul
When peace, like a river, attendeth my way,
When sorrows like sea billows roll;
Whatever my lot, Thou has taught me to say,
It is well, it is well, with my soul.
Refrain:
It is well, with my soul,
It is well, it is well, with my soul.
My sin, oh, the bliss of this glorious thought!
My sin, not in part but the whole,
Is nailed to the cross, and I bear it no more,
Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, O my soul!
For me, be it Christ, be it Christ hence to live:
And Lord, haste the day when my faith shall be sight,
The clouds be rolled back as a scroll;
The trump shall resound, and the Lord shall descend,
Even so, it is well with my soul.
Through the Fire
Malachi 3:3 And he shall sit as a refiner and purifier of silver: and he shall purify the sons of Levi, and purge them as gold and silver, that they may offer unto the LORD an offering in righteousness.
A woman called a silversmith and made an appointment to watch him at work. She didn't mention anything about the reason for her interest beyond her curiosity about the process of refining silver. As she watched the silversmith, he held a piece of silver over the fire and let it heat up. He explained that in refining silver, one needed to hold the silver in the middle of the fire where the flames were the hottest so as to burn away all of the impurities. The woman thought about God holding us in such a hot spot; then she thought again about the verse that says: "He sits as a refiner and purifier of silver." She asked the silversmith if it was true that he had to sit there in front of the fire the whole time the silver was being refined. The man answered that, "Yes, he not only had to sit there holding the silver in the fire, but he had to keep his eyes on the silver the entire time it was in the fire. If the silver was left a moment too long in the flames, it would be destroyed. The woman was silent for a moment. Then she asked the silversmith, "How do you know when the silver is fully refined?"He smiled at her and answered, "Oh, that's easy -- when I see my image in the silver." This story is taken from www.separatedmen.com
Through the Fire
So many times I've questioned certain circumstances,
And things I could not understand.
And many times in trials, weakness blurs my vision;
That's when my frustration gets so out of hand.
It's then I am reminded: that I've never been forsaken,
I've never had to stand one test alone.
When I look at all my victories,
And the spirit rises up in me,
And it's through the fire my weakness is made strong!
Chorus:
He never promised that the cross would not get heavy,
And the hill would not be hard to climb.
He never offered our victories without fighting,
But He said help would always come in time.
So just remember, when you're standing in the valley of decision
And the adversary says "give in",
Just hold on, My Lord will show up
And He will take you through the fire again!
Bridge:
I know within myself that I would surely perish
But if I trust the mighty hand of God,
He'll shield the flames again, again
Repeat Chorus
A woman called a silversmith and made an appointment to watch him at work. She didn't mention anything about the reason for her interest beyond her curiosity about the process of refining silver. As she watched the silversmith, he held a piece of silver over the fire and let it heat up. He explained that in refining silver, one needed to hold the silver in the middle of the fire where the flames were the hottest so as to burn away all of the impurities. The woman thought about God holding us in such a hot spot; then she thought again about the verse that says: "He sits as a refiner and purifier of silver." She asked the silversmith if it was true that he had to sit there in front of the fire the whole time the silver was being refined. The man answered that, "Yes, he not only had to sit there holding the silver in the fire, but he had to keep his eyes on the silver the entire time it was in the fire. If the silver was left a moment too long in the flames, it would be destroyed. The woman was silent for a moment. Then she asked the silversmith, "How do you know when the silver is fully refined?"He smiled at her and answered, "Oh, that's easy -- when I see my image in the silver." This story is taken from www.separatedmen.com
Through the Fire
So many times I've questioned certain circumstances,
And things I could not understand.
And many times in trials, weakness blurs my vision;
That's when my frustration gets so out of hand.
It's then I am reminded: that I've never been forsaken,
I've never had to stand one test alone.
When I look at all my victories,
And the spirit rises up in me,
And it's through the fire my weakness is made strong!
Chorus:
He never promised that the cross would not get heavy,
And the hill would not be hard to climb.
He never offered our victories without fighting,
But He said help would always come in time.
So just remember, when you're standing in the valley of decision
And the adversary says "give in",
Just hold on, My Lord will show up
And He will take you through the fire again!
Bridge:
I know within myself that I would surely perish
But if I trust the mighty hand of God,
He'll shield the flames again, again
Repeat Chorus
Thursday, May 6, 2010
He Leadeth Me
HE LEADETH ME!
He leadeth me, O blessed thought!
O words with heav’nly comfort fraught!
Whate’er I do, where’er I be
Still ’tis God’s hand that leadeth me.
Refrain:
He leadeth me, He leadeth me,
By His own hand He leadeth me;
His faithful foll’wer I would be,
For by His hand He leadeth me.
Sometimes ’mid scenes of deepest gloom,
Sometimes where Eden’s bowers bloom,
By waters still, o’er troubled sea,
Still ’tis His hand that leadeth me.
Lord, I would place my hand in Thine,
Nor ever murmur nor repine;
Content, whatever lot I see,
Since ’tis my God that leadeth me.
And when my task on earth is done,
When by Thy grace the vict’ry’s won,
E’en death’s cold wave I will not flee,
Since God through Jordan leadeth me.
He leadeth me, O blessed thought!
O words with heav’nly comfort fraught!
Whate’er I do, where’er I be
Still ’tis God’s hand that leadeth me.
Refrain:
He leadeth me, He leadeth me,
By His own hand He leadeth me;
His faithful foll’wer I would be,
For by His hand He leadeth me.
Sometimes ’mid scenes of deepest gloom,
Sometimes where Eden’s bowers bloom,
By waters still, o’er troubled sea,
Still ’tis His hand that leadeth me.
Lord, I would place my hand in Thine,
Nor ever murmur nor repine;
Content, whatever lot I see,
Since ’tis my God that leadeth me.
And when my task on earth is done,
When by Thy grace the vict’ry’s won,
E’en death’s cold wave I will not flee,
Since God through Jordan leadeth me.
Sunday, May 2, 2010
Because He Lives!
This evening I started to have a pity party for myself, tomorrow starts "teacher appreciation week," I never really gave any thought but this year it's different. This year I'm at a school where it's a it's a big deal and I was just letting it all get to me until God put this song ("Because He Lives') in my head. It first started with me humming, "Because He lives, I can face tomorrow!" Then it hit me I can literally face tomorrow because God will give me the peace to get through it, and every other day! "Because He lives, all fear (uncertainty) is gone," I don't need to worry about what people think or don't think of me. "Because i know He holds the future and life is worth a living just because He lives!" I don't need to worry about anything, I just need to continue trusting in HIM!!!
Because He Lives
The Gaithers
God sent His Son - they called Him Jesus,
He came to love, heal and forgive;
He lived and died to buy my pardon,
An empty grave is there to prove my Savior lives.
Chorus:
Because He lives I can face tomorrow,
Because He lives all fear is gone;
Because I know He holds the future
And life is worth the living just because He lives.
How sweet to hold a newborn baby
And feel the pride and joy he gives;
But greater still the calm assurance:
This child can face uncertain days because Christ lives.
(Chorus)
And then one day I'll cross the river,
I'll fight life's final war with pain;
And then, as death gives way to victory,
I'll see the lights of glory - and I'll know He lives.
Because He Lives
The Gaithers
God sent His Son - they called Him Jesus,
He came to love, heal and forgive;
He lived and died to buy my pardon,
An empty grave is there to prove my Savior lives.
Chorus:
Because He lives I can face tomorrow,
Because He lives all fear is gone;
Because I know He holds the future
And life is worth the living just because He lives.
How sweet to hold a newborn baby
And feel the pride and joy he gives;
But greater still the calm assurance:
This child can face uncertain days because Christ lives.
(Chorus)
And then one day I'll cross the river,
I'll fight life's final war with pain;
And then, as death gives way to victory,
I'll see the lights of glory - and I'll know He lives.
Saturday, May 1, 2010
God is my Master Weaver!
It's incomprehensible how God works but it is also so amazing. He speaks through songs, stories, Bible studies, still small voices, loud clashing shouts but still He speaks. He gives peace where their should be none, understanding when you can't understand anymore, grace when that is the farthest thought in your mind, and compassion for others when all you want is for others to come and have a pity party for you! My God the master weaver can take all of the threads of my life and turn it into a tapestry of praise for Him!
For so long I tried to weave the "threads" of my life, only allowing God to help when I needed it. I cannot even begin to tell you how awful my tapestry looked, until last year I turned in my tools and let God do his work of art in my life. I turned my life over to the Lord over 15 years ago, I grew up in a Christian home, I was a member of a church 9 months before I was born, but I always tried to maintain the design. I was like that bumper stick "God is my Co-Pilot" but instead mine would have said "God is my Co-Weaver." I had felt the tugging of my strings before, but I knew what I wanted out of my design and I felt like I had the artistic direction to get it there, let's just be clear I DON'T!
I was master designer when I was in college and even though I had my struggles, I felt like I was in control. I became an intern with the "smart kids," I had rave reviews from others and I thought my design was "hot stuff." I began teaching and within the first three months I became a "model teacher," I was the one who received the outstanding reviews, I was the one who took the praise. When I got sick, I was the one who fought and won each battle with TTP and I was the one who took all of the sympathy.
Little did I know I that I was the one who was ruining the design. If you ask any artist they will tell you that if you don't step back to gain perspective and direction your piece will be ruined. I was the one who never stepped back. Yes, when I was in need or sick I prayed and asked God to make it better, and He did; but when I came through it I went on as if I did it all on my own. Now that I've released the controls, life doesn't seem like a chore. He has given such peace, understanding, and grace and that is all I could ever want or need!
I'm not going to go into all of the details that lead me to hand in my "tool" and let God finish the design, but I will skim them.
I think back to last year when this all started, I knew what God wanted me to do and I did it. I will never regret what I said, how I said it, why I said it, or what came of it. I know and can see that He was and is working all things for my good. I got a chance to teach some awesome kids and hopefully make an impact. I got the opportunity to go to a new school and learn from insanely awesome teacher and to spend a year with my Cam!
Even though He didn't change the outcome to what I wanted, He changed the outcome to what I needed. Even though He didn't send me a "Publishers Clearinghouse" check for $100,000,000, He is providing for my needs. Even though He isn't sitting on my bed or writing a blog to explain the whys and whats, He provides me with scripture/Bible study or a song when I need it. He's not crowding me with people who would be more than willing to help me have a pity party because He knows I don't need it! He's showing me everyday that there are those with situations and circumstances that in the grand scheme of thing may or may not be "bigger" than mine, but to them it is everything and He has provided me with a compassion for them that I might not of ever had. (Let me just say for those people, if there are an, who may one day read this blog; I am very compassionate (and humble, can't you tell :), but there are some people who I find it very hard to have compassion for (this would be people who I know, not strangers)!)
In closing I will never regret the day when I asked Jesus to save my soul and forgive me of my sins, nor will I ever regret the day when I choose to change my saying from "God is my Co-Weaver" to "God is my MASTER WEAVER!"
Thank you Lord for allowing me to come into Your Kingdom! Thank you for saving me of my sins, even though You knew that i would not turn over my tools until later in my life! Thank you for meeting each and every one of my needs! Lord, You are so great and awesome and I just praise You for what you have done in and through this sinner's life! Father I just pray that you continue to weave my life in such a way that it only brings praise and glory to you! Please let me be a witness for You! I give You all the praise, honor, and glory FOREVER! AMEN!
I'D RATHER HAVE JESUS
George Beverly Shea
I'd rather have Jesus than silver or gold,
I'd rather be His than have riches untold;
I'd rather have Jesus than houses or land,
I'd rather be led by His nail-pierced hand:
Chorus
Than to be the king of a vast domain
Or be held in sin's dread sway
I'd rather have Jesus than anything
This world affords today
I'd rather have Jesus than men's applause,
I'd rather be faithful to His dear cause;
I'd rather have Jesus than worldwide fame,
I'd rather be true to His holy name:...
He's fairer than lilies of rarest bloom,
He's sweeter than honey from out the comb;
He's all that my hungering spirit needs;
I'd rather have Jesus and let Him lead:...
How Great Is Our God
The splendor of a King, clothed in majesty
Let all the earth rejoice
All the earth rejoice
He wraps himself in Light, and darkness tries to hide
And trembles at His voice
Trembles at His voice
How great is our God, sing with me
How great is our God, and all will see
How great, how great is our God
Age to age He stands
And time is in His hands
Beginning and the end
Beginning and the end
The Godhead Three in One
Father Spirit Son
The Lion and the Lamb
The Lion and the Lamb
How great is our God, sing with me
How great is our God, and all will see
How great, how great is our God
Name above all names
Worthy of our praise
My heart will sing
How great is our God
How great is our God, sing with me
How great is our God, and all will see
How great, how great is our God
For so long I tried to weave the "threads" of my life, only allowing God to help when I needed it. I cannot even begin to tell you how awful my tapestry looked, until last year I turned in my tools and let God do his work of art in my life. I turned my life over to the Lord over 15 years ago, I grew up in a Christian home, I was a member of a church 9 months before I was born, but I always tried to maintain the design. I was like that bumper stick "God is my Co-Pilot" but instead mine would have said "God is my Co-Weaver." I had felt the tugging of my strings before, but I knew what I wanted out of my design and I felt like I had the artistic direction to get it there, let's just be clear I DON'T!
I was master designer when I was in college and even though I had my struggles, I felt like I was in control. I became an intern with the "smart kids," I had rave reviews from others and I thought my design was "hot stuff." I began teaching and within the first three months I became a "model teacher," I was the one who received the outstanding reviews, I was the one who took the praise. When I got sick, I was the one who fought and won each battle with TTP and I was the one who took all of the sympathy.
Little did I know I that I was the one who was ruining the design. If you ask any artist they will tell you that if you don't step back to gain perspective and direction your piece will be ruined. I was the one who never stepped back. Yes, when I was in need or sick I prayed and asked God to make it better, and He did; but when I came through it I went on as if I did it all on my own. Now that I've released the controls, life doesn't seem like a chore. He has given such peace, understanding, and grace and that is all I could ever want or need!
I'm not going to go into all of the details that lead me to hand in my "tool" and let God finish the design, but I will skim them.
I think back to last year when this all started, I knew what God wanted me to do and I did it. I will never regret what I said, how I said it, why I said it, or what came of it. I know and can see that He was and is working all things for my good. I got a chance to teach some awesome kids and hopefully make an impact. I got the opportunity to go to a new school and learn from insanely awesome teacher and to spend a year with my Cam!
Even though He didn't change the outcome to what I wanted, He changed the outcome to what I needed. Even though He didn't send me a "Publishers Clearinghouse" check for $100,000,000, He is providing for my needs. Even though He isn't sitting on my bed or writing a blog to explain the whys and whats, He provides me with scripture/Bible study or a song when I need it. He's not crowding me with people who would be more than willing to help me have a pity party because He knows I don't need it! He's showing me everyday that there are those with situations and circumstances that in the grand scheme of thing may or may not be "bigger" than mine, but to them it is everything and He has provided me with a compassion for them that I might not of ever had. (Let me just say for those people, if there are an, who may one day read this blog; I am very compassionate (and humble, can't you tell :), but there are some people who I find it very hard to have compassion for (this would be people who I know, not strangers)!)
In closing I will never regret the day when I asked Jesus to save my soul and forgive me of my sins, nor will I ever regret the day when I choose to change my saying from "God is my Co-Weaver" to "God is my MASTER WEAVER!"
Thank you Lord for allowing me to come into Your Kingdom! Thank you for saving me of my sins, even though You knew that i would not turn over my tools until later in my life! Thank you for meeting each and every one of my needs! Lord, You are so great and awesome and I just praise You for what you have done in and through this sinner's life! Father I just pray that you continue to weave my life in such a way that it only brings praise and glory to you! Please let me be a witness for You! I give You all the praise, honor, and glory FOREVER! AMEN!
I'D RATHER HAVE JESUS
George Beverly Shea
I'd rather have Jesus than silver or gold,
I'd rather be His than have riches untold;
I'd rather have Jesus than houses or land,
I'd rather be led by His nail-pierced hand:
Chorus
Than to be the king of a vast domain
Or be held in sin's dread sway
I'd rather have Jesus than anything
This world affords today
I'd rather have Jesus than men's applause,
I'd rather be faithful to His dear cause;
I'd rather have Jesus than worldwide fame,
I'd rather be true to His holy name:...
He's fairer than lilies of rarest bloom,
He's sweeter than honey from out the comb;
He's all that my hungering spirit needs;
I'd rather have Jesus and let Him lead:...
How Great Is Our God
The splendor of a King, clothed in majesty
Let all the earth rejoice
All the earth rejoice
He wraps himself in Light, and darkness tries to hide
And trembles at His voice
Trembles at His voice
How great is our God, sing with me
How great is our God, and all will see
How great, how great is our God
Age to age He stands
And time is in His hands
Beginning and the end
Beginning and the end
The Godhead Three in One
Father Spirit Son
The Lion and the Lamb
The Lion and the Lamb
How great is our God, sing with me
How great is our God, and all will see
How great, how great is our God
Name above all names
Worthy of our praise
My heart will sing
How great is our God
How great is our God, sing with me
How great is our God, and all will see
How great, how great is our God
Sunday, April 25, 2010
This Is How It Feels To Be Free!
Ephesians 4: 1-3 In light of all this, here's what I want you to do. While I'm locked up here, a prisoner for the Master, I want you to get out there and walk—better yet, run!—on the road God called you to travel. I don't want any of you sitting around on your hands. I don't want anyone strolling off, down some path that goes nowhere. And mark that you do this with humility and discipline—not in fits and starts, but steadily, pouring yourselves out for each other in acts of love, alert at noticing differences and quick at mending fences.
Today I was reading a blog and she quoted the above verse in Ephesians; it touched my heart so much because I don't want to ever let this peace that God has given me turn into complacency. The dictionary defines complacency as a feeling of smug or uncritical satisfaction with one's self or accomplishments. But as I think about it all of these feeling I have right now I know it isn't complacency but rather is how it feels to be free! A complete and utter peace with the Lord's will. There's a complete understanding that this situation is all part of His will for my life, and though I may not understand why my path is changing I understand that God and God alone is changing it, and I feel free!
I know there is a risk of growing complacent in this feeling, but that is where my job as a Christian goes into OVERDRIVE, I cannot begin strolling along this new path, I must run towards His will! As the verse below states I must do this with humility and disciple, I must stay steady, I must give of myself to further reach God's will! There's one more thing that I MUST do as a free follower of Christ, I must let go and let God have control! I must freely give Him my life, fears, concerns, anxiety, and let Him work through me! This is how I will avoid the great rick of growing complacent!
Lord I know that You are the author of my life and just as the awesome author You are; You have written in my life a great highs and crushing lows, but yet through it You are the One I praise. My satisfaction and accomplishments are Yours Lord! Father I pray that I run to Your will, I want to follow that road you have laid out for me! Father please never let me grow complacent on this road but rather please fill me with an ever increasing desire to follow You! Father it's all for Your will, Your glory, Your honor, and to give You my utmost praise!
"This Is How It Feels To Be Free"
There is a wall that has been standing
Since the day that Adam fell
Sin is where it started
And Sin is why it held
Speaking as a prisoner
Who was there and lived to tell
I remember how it fell
I can here the sound of freedom
Like a distant voice who called
And beckon me to follow
Where I had never gone
And though my heart is willing'
I just stood there at the wall
Praying somehow it would fall
But in a cross I found a doorway
And a hand that held a key
And when the chains fell at my feet
For the first time I could see
Chorus:
This is how it feels to be free
This is what it means to know that
I am forgiven
This is how it feels to be free
To see that life can be more than I imagined
This is how it feels to be free
This is how it feels to be free Yeahhh!
There are days when I'm reminded
Of the prison I was in
Like a living nightmare
Burning from the viel
I can feel the voice of evil
I can hear the call of sin
But I wont go back again
See, once I've tasted freedom
Then the walls could bind no more
Since mercy gave me wings to fly
Like an eagle I can soar
repeat chorus
Somewhere there's a prison
Where the chains still burn
If not for the grace of god
Those walls could still be mine
So far all the captives are saved
Today I was reading a blog and she quoted the above verse in Ephesians; it touched my heart so much because I don't want to ever let this peace that God has given me turn into complacency. The dictionary defines complacency as a feeling of smug or uncritical satisfaction with one's self or accomplishments. But as I think about it all of these feeling I have right now I know it isn't complacency but rather is how it feels to be free! A complete and utter peace with the Lord's will. There's a complete understanding that this situation is all part of His will for my life, and though I may not understand why my path is changing I understand that God and God alone is changing it, and I feel free!
I know there is a risk of growing complacent in this feeling, but that is where my job as a Christian goes into OVERDRIVE, I cannot begin strolling along this new path, I must run towards His will! As the verse below states I must do this with humility and disciple, I must stay steady, I must give of myself to further reach God's will! There's one more thing that I MUST do as a free follower of Christ, I must let go and let God have control! I must freely give Him my life, fears, concerns, anxiety, and let Him work through me! This is how I will avoid the great rick of growing complacent!
Lord I know that You are the author of my life and just as the awesome author You are; You have written in my life a great highs and crushing lows, but yet through it You are the One I praise. My satisfaction and accomplishments are Yours Lord! Father I pray that I run to Your will, I want to follow that road you have laid out for me! Father please never let me grow complacent on this road but rather please fill me with an ever increasing desire to follow You! Father it's all for Your will, Your glory, Your honor, and to give You my utmost praise!
"This Is How It Feels To Be Free"
There is a wall that has been standing
Since the day that Adam fell
Sin is where it started
And Sin is why it held
Speaking as a prisoner
Who was there and lived to tell
I remember how it fell
I can here the sound of freedom
Like a distant voice who called
And beckon me to follow
Where I had never gone
And though my heart is willing'
I just stood there at the wall
Praying somehow it would fall
But in a cross I found a doorway
And a hand that held a key
And when the chains fell at my feet
For the first time I could see
Chorus:
This is how it feels to be free
This is what it means to know that
I am forgiven
This is how it feels to be free
To see that life can be more than I imagined
This is how it feels to be free
This is how it feels to be free Yeahhh!
There are days when I'm reminded
Of the prison I was in
Like a living nightmare
Burning from the viel
I can feel the voice of evil
I can hear the call of sin
But I wont go back again
See, once I've tasted freedom
Then the walls could bind no more
Since mercy gave me wings to fly
Like an eagle I can soar
repeat chorus
Somewhere there's a prison
Where the chains still burn
If not for the grace of god
Those walls could still be mine
So far all the captives are saved
Friday, April 23, 2010
Yes! Lord Yes!
I never thought that I would EVER have to look for a new job, I never even considered it. Now don't get me wrong I always tried, wanted, considered, hoped, and PRAYED that I would change schools; but jobs no. There's an excitement that comes with the peace You have given me Lord, but You know my heart there is also a fear what's to be. Lord I know that you will provide for me and all who depend on me, but I'm just afraid that I will miss Your lead. Father, please direct my paths lead me in to Your will, direct my path, calm my concerns, but most of all have Your perfect will in my life. Lord, I love you and thank You for what You have done in my life!
Yes! Lord Yes!
To Your will and to Your way.
I wanna say,
Yes! Lord Yes!
I will trust you and obey.
When Your Spirit speaks to me,
with my whole heart I will see,
and my answer will be
Yes! Lord Yes!
Yes! Lord Yes!
To Your will and to Your way.
I wanna say,
Yes! Lord Yes!
I will trust you and obey.
When Your Spirit speaks to me,
with my whole heart I will see,
and my answer will be
Yes! Lord Yes!
Monday, April 19, 2010
I'll Say Yes!
Isn't it amazing how the peace of the Lord can come in as a flood when you need it the most? He's direction to a verse or song can bring in a flood of peace that will sooth all doubt. Even in the times when you can open up your Bible or turn on your music, He places these things in our hearts to remind us that when we give Him the control that He is more than faithful to provide the peace. Thank you Lord for Your sustaining peace!
"I'll Say Yes Lord"
I'll say yes Lord, I'll say yes
To Your will Lord, I'll say yes
where You lead me, I will go.
I'll say yes Lord, I'll say yes..
"I'll Say Yes Lord"
I'll say yes Lord, I'll say yes
To Your will Lord, I'll say yes
where You lead me, I will go.
I'll say yes Lord, I'll say yes..
Sunday, April 18, 2010
Thank You Lord!
Thank you Lord for everything that you have blessed me with! Thank you first and foremost for saving my soul! You knew from the beginning of the world who I would be and what I would do, but You still choose to die on a cross to save me! Well me and everyone else who has asked for Your forgiveness! I don't deserve Your love and forgiveness, but I am so thankful for it!
Thank you for allowing me to teach these past six years, you have given be the opportunity to work with some of the most awesome children I could every have asked for! I pray that as they look back on our time together that they will remember that Ms. Smith loves them and only wanted the best for them! Thank you for allowing me to have worked on perfecting my teaching abilities throughout this ordeal! Thank you for the colleagues that You have put in my life some who have strengthened my faith, some who have tested it, and others who You have allowed me to share my faith with! Lord I pray that they will remember me and the fact that it was You who gave me the strength. The strength to apologize for when I was wrong, the strength to stand up for what was right, and the strength to see and understand Your will through it all!
Thank you for allowing me to see Your hand in all of these situations! Thank you for guiding me through it all and speaking to my heart when I have needed it the most! Thank you for the grace to handle these situations, for the wisdom to see Your hand working through them, the knowledge to know that all things work together for go for those that serve the Lord, the strength to not crumble into a million little pieces but to keep pressing on towards Your perfect will, and the peace and understanding that You had planned this from before the world began and Your will is perfect!
Thank you Lord for everything! I love You and will praise You forever more! AMEN!
There will be peace in the valley for me, some day.
There will be peace in the valley for me, oh Lord I pray.
There'll be no sadness, no sorrow, my Lord,
no trouble, trouble I see.
There will be peace in the valley for me!
Thank you for allowing me to teach these past six years, you have given be the opportunity to work with some of the most awesome children I could every have asked for! I pray that as they look back on our time together that they will remember that Ms. Smith loves them and only wanted the best for them! Thank you for allowing me to have worked on perfecting my teaching abilities throughout this ordeal! Thank you for the colleagues that You have put in my life some who have strengthened my faith, some who have tested it, and others who You have allowed me to share my faith with! Lord I pray that they will remember me and the fact that it was You who gave me the strength. The strength to apologize for when I was wrong, the strength to stand up for what was right, and the strength to see and understand Your will through it all!
Thank you for allowing me to see Your hand in all of these situations! Thank you for guiding me through it all and speaking to my heart when I have needed it the most! Thank you for the grace to handle these situations, for the wisdom to see Your hand working through them, the knowledge to know that all things work together for go for those that serve the Lord, the strength to not crumble into a million little pieces but to keep pressing on towards Your perfect will, and the peace and understanding that You had planned this from before the world began and Your will is perfect!
Thank you Lord for everything! I love You and will praise You forever more! AMEN!
There will be peace in the valley for me, some day.
There will be peace in the valley for me, oh Lord I pray.
There'll be no sadness, no sorrow, my Lord,
no trouble, trouble I see.
There will be peace in the valley for me!
Monday, April 12, 2010
He's My King!
There is no words to say the peace I have about everything that has happened over these past few weeks. I am fully confident that my King will provide for me. My King is not bound by this economy, by my poor financial decisions, my education (training), my King is not bound by me! My King has given me a peace that passes all understanding and I have complete trust and faith that He will continue to do so!
Praise the Lord!
He will work through those who praise Him.
Praise the Lord!
For our God inhabits praise.
Praise the Lord!
For those chains that seem to bind you,
serve only to remind you,
that they drop powerless behind you,
when you praise HIS NAME!!
Praise the Lord!
He will work through those who praise Him.
Praise the Lord!
For our God inhabits praise.
Praise the Lord!
For those chains that seem to bind you,
serve only to remind you,
that they drop powerless behind you,
when you praise HIS NAME!!
Monday, March 29, 2010
Questions
Why don't I fight this? Why don't I stand up for my "name"? Why, why, why? There are so many questions surrounding this whole situation, but my answer is still the same for every question. For some reason this is God's plan for my life, who am I to question His will? Who am I to think that I know what's better for me than the One who created me. As for protecting my "name", through it all I feel like God has allowed me to strengthen my witness for Him. So what is more important to me, being known as an awesome teacher or being known as a follower of Christ. That doesn't mean that I don't and won't defend myself, but it does mean that I am not worried what others think of me. I know who I am and I know who I want to be! As I step out into the unknown it is with a mixture of excitement and nerves, but through it all I know God will lead me.
Lead me Lord, I will follow.
Lead me Lord, I will go.
You have called me, I will answer.
Lead me Lord I will go!
Lead me Lord, I will follow.
Lead me Lord, I will go.
You have called me, I will answer.
Lead me Lord I will go!
Sunday, March 28, 2010
Still Still
This week has brought so many changes to my life, but at the same point I am at peace. I have found great strength through the past days knowing that I am at the center of God's will! In the days to come I will need that strength and peace more than ever before, but I look forward to see what God has in store for me next!
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
Be Still My Soul
In the midst of major uncertainties, my soul is still. When I don't know what tomorrow will bring, my soul is still. When everything that I have ever longed for seems to fall apart, my soul is still. Am I a super Christian? ABSOLUTELY NOT! Do I have questions about what's happening? ABSOLUTELY YES! Would I give anything to be out of this situation? YES YES YES! But at this point I know that I am in the center of the Lord's Will, and that is why my soul is still.
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